About me
Hi, I’m Mimmie – Adventure Traveler, Helping You Explore South Africa & Beyond 🌍
I’m a travel writer, nature lover, and slow-travel enthusiast exploring South Africa and beyond. I believe adventure is for everyone — whether you’re traveling in a van, catching flights to explore new places and cultures, or simply curious about the road less taken. Through honest guides, stories, and practical tips, I hope to inspire you to explore meaningfully and chase the adventures that light you up.
My Story ✨
I was born and raised on a farm in the Springbokvlakte of South Africa — a place where childhood meant climbing trees, swimming in farm dams, and herding goats across endless open veld. Those early years shaped my love for nature, my curiosity about the world, and my need to wander.
I’ve always sought adventure and thrilling experiences. As a child, I would disappear into the veld with the goats or daydream about faraway lands, tracing routes on old paper maps long before I ever boarded a plane.
Although I dreamed of becoming an air hostess, life had other plans — and that’s when my own journey began. Over the years, I’ve explored four continents, visited more than twenty countries.
Inspired by my vision for adventure and freedom on the road, my husband built our self-converted off-grid van from scratch – you can read the full van build guide — proving that adventure doesn’t have to be complicated, just intentional and creative.
One of my most memorable trips was a three-week solo adventure through Vietnam — proof that travel doesn’t always require a companion, and that life is too short to wait for the perfect moment.
Travel became more than something I did — it became part of who I am. I have a passion for exploring adventurous places around the world and learning from new cultures. It has taught me to embrace both the planned and the beautifully unexpected.
This blog grew from a lifelong love of storytelling and a desire to help others explore the world with confidence, curiosity, and respect. I want to inspire readers to discover the adventures they’ve always dreamed of — whether it’s a coastal road trip, a quiet mountain escape, or building your own tiny home on wheels.
Life Today 🚐
Today, my partner and I are based in Pretoria, South Africa — although we spend as much time as possible on the road in our self-converted, off-grid motorhome with our dogs Rosy (Africanis) and Jockie (Jack Russell). It’s not glamorous in a materialistic sense, but for us, it’s glamorous in its own way — full of nature, freedom, and the small joys that each adventure brings. Every day feels alive, full, and deeply rewarding.
And when my partner can’t join, I happily take solo adventures — because life is too short to wait for the perfect moment or the perfect companion.
Van-life gives us the freedom to explore slowly, camp in wild places, and wake up surrounded by nature. Some days we hike misty forest trails. Other days we chase coastal sunsets or sip coffee beside a river while kingfishers dart across the water.
Our self-converted off-grid van, built by Johan, has even been featured in Tuis Magazine and on Drive South Africa’s Roadtrip Explorer for our 12-day Eastern Cape adventure. You can also explore the full story in our Eastern Cape Road Trip guide, with tips on planning, lessons learned, and where to stay.
I live simply and intentionally — supporting local communities where I can, spending most of my time outdoors, and choosing experiences over things.
How I Help You ✨
This space is where I share what I’ve learned from years of exploring South Africa and beyond — whether by road, plane, or foot. My goal is simple: to help you travel more confidently, more meaningfully, and in a way that feels true to you.
Even if you’re not hitting the road, these guides are packed with practical tips for discovering hidden gems, camping spots, and experiences that suit any style of travel.
Most importantly, I want to inspire you to live your dreams — to do the things you’ve always wanted, even if they feel scary, and to build memories that will stay with you long after the trip ends. Because in the end, that’s what matters most.
Below are a few ways this blog can support your adventures:
Van-Life & Road Trip Guides 🛻
I share real-world tips for exploring South Africa on the road — whether starting from Gauteng or anywhere else — and traveling to the Wild Coast, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, and beyond. Even if you’re not hitting the road, these guides are packed with practical tips for discovering hidden gems, camping spots, and experiences that suit any style of travel.
➤ 🚗 The Ultimate KZN Road Trip — discover hidden gems and top stops along the coast.
➤ 🏞️ Eastern Cape Road Trip — plan your journey with tips, routes, and must-see stops.
➤ 🌄 Mpumalanga Panorama Route — explore waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and must-see spots along this iconic route.
Travel Guides Abroad 🌏
I also write detailed guides to destinations around the world — including Vietnam, Turkey, Peru, and more — sharing my personal experiences, tips, and recommendations along the way.
These guides cover where to go, what to see, and how to travel safely and meaningfully, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a larger adventure. More countries and guides are coming soon!
➤ ✈️ Vietnam Adventure — tips, highlights, and what to expect from this amazing country. (Solo Vietnam guide to follow shortly.)
Travel Tips & Advice 🧭
South Africa and the wider world can feel overwhelming for first-time or even experienced travelers. I share insights on regions, seasonal visits, cultural tips, safety, and how to explore responsibly — all to help you make the most of your trip.
Gear, Packing & Resources 🎒
I offer honest advice on gear, packing, and planning — whether it’s for camping, van-life, hiking, or just smart travel essentials. Helpful free guides and checklists are included to make your planning stress-free.
Adventure isn’t one-size-fits-all 🌟
Whether you’re exploring your hometown, discovering South Africa by road, or traveling abroad, I hope this blog inspires you to follow your curiosity, live boldly, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Fun Stuff About Me 😄
Travel isn’t the only thing that keeps me curious — I love exploring life in all its forms.
- I have a soft spot for dogs — our Africanis Rosy keeps life lively, and Jockie, our Jack Russell, keeps us on our toes. 🐕
- Traveling solo for weeks at a time was an amazing experience and proves that the world is never too big when you’re brave enough to explore. ✈️
- Coffee in hand, sunrise hikes, and getting lost in nature make me happy. ☕🌄
- I enjoy discovering local cultures, tasting new foods, and meeting people whose stories inspire me to see life from a different perspective. 🍲🌏
- Sometimes I get a little whimsical. Van-life adventures often include spontaneous detours, quirky roadside stops & chasing the perfect sunset. 🌅
- ✨ Fun fact: Our van built by Johan has been featured in Tuis Magazine and on Drive South Africa’s Roadtrip Explorer, and I’ve chatted about our RV Life Adventures on 702 Cape Talk Breakfast Show.
- 🌄 Madonna & Child Waterfall Hogsback — one of our favourite spontaneous detours.
Whether hiking a forest trail, wandering a foreign city alone, exploring unknown places, or planning my next adventure, this is when I am happiest and create lasting memories.
➤ 🌍 Want to see where curiosity has taken me? Check out my Destination Travel Guides and join the adventures — local and abroad.
Read More Posts →
Let’s Connect 📩
I love connecting with fellow travelers, adventurers, and dreamers! 🌟
- Follow along on social media for the latest trips, tips, and stories: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter
- Subscribe to my newsletter for updates, travel guides, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox- Sign up here.
- Say hello or ask a question — I’m always happy to hear from readers and fellow adventurers.
Wherever you’re headed next, I hope we can share the journey together.
✈️ A little help from my travel buddy, ChatGPT by OpenAI
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